The New York Yankees got out to a great start in 2024, banishing memories of their poor 2023 season. However, New York has struggled in recent weeks, going 5-16 since June 14.
Naturally, Yankees fans are fed up, and slugger Aaron Judge has heard the rumbling. On the Casa De Klub podcast, Judge discussed hearing the boos:
The Yankees star explained, “You don’t like hearing it. It stings, but I wouldn’t have it any other way, guy. I’d rather be booed in New York for failing to complete my responsibilities. I’m meant to be there in the midst of the lineup, producing and doing my thing. If I am not, please let me know. I’d rather have that than be in another city where people clap when I fly out for the fourth time.I grounded into a double play, and they said, ‘It’s okay, you’ll get it next time.’ Man, that is not why we play; you want to win. It’s a high standard, and we have high standards for ourselves, but the fans remind you that we have a high standard here in Pinstripes, and I wouldn’t have it any other way.”
Aaron Judge leads the league in home runs (32) and RBIs (83) while batting.308, so fans have little reason to criticize him. The faltering Yankees are a different story, while still holding the AL’s top Wild Card spot.
Judge says he’d rather be booed in New York than play in front of apathetic supporters. He, like Judge, recently discussed the Tampa Bay Rays making him an offer in 2022, which he described as ‘a really respectful offer.’
Yankees youngster Ben Rice is excelling during the Yankees difficulties.
Ben Rice, a rookie with the New York Yankees, has made an immediate impact since being promoted from the minors. Rice broke franchise history on Saturday by hitting three home runs in a 14-4 win over the Boston Red Sox.
Rice got promoted to the Yankees in late June and has been performing exceptionally well. He has hit in 19 of his games.267 with five home runs, 14 RBI, eight walks, and 13 strikeouts.
The Yankees selected Rice in the 12th round of the 2021 draft. Manager Aaron Boone has been very impressed with what he has brought to the table for New York since joining the team.
“He’s coming off an outstanding year last year in the Minor Leagues that put him on the map and burst onto the scene,” Boone told the crowd. “He earned a trip to Spring Training and continued it throughout the spring and into the new year. He’s come up here and given us good at-bats every day.”
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